The construction sector significantly contributes to nations’ growth, prosperity, and economies. It is also a significant employer supporting the livelihoods of households worldwide. It has become a critical partner to other sectors. However, the industry has been impacted by shocks and stresses, which affected its capacity, performance, and productivity. The available literature focusses on individual shocks and stresses and does not provide a holistic view of the different types of shocks and stresses imposed on the construction sector. However, a holistic and bird's eye view of the shock-scape enhances the knowledge and awareness of their sector's stakeholders, enabling them to plan and work towards a more resilient sector properly. Adopting an exploratory scoping literature review, this study aims to present a preliminary scoping review of the literature to identify by providing a conceptual clarification of the most prevalent shocks and stresses that are imposed on the construction industry and an overview of their possible impacts. The literature findings show that the construction sector is sensitive to the prevailing economic conditions, labour market, supply chain conditions, natural and biological hazards, and the movement towards reducing the carbon dioxide print to curb the effects of climate change. The literature also reported that sociocultural factors such as demography, immigration trends, and social stigmatisation could impact the sector's performance. Political uncertainty, changes in legislation or regulation, and legal issues also need to be considered.